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    Benelli Leoncino 800, Trail Retro-Classic Motorcycles Unveiled

    Benelli Leoncino 800 Trail
    The Benelli Leoncino 800 twins are equipped with adjustable Marzocchi front suspension and Brembo braking system

    The middle weight retro-classic roadster segment seems to be in the vogue off late as indicated by steady inflow of new models. The Triumph Trident brought fresh energy to this segment which is currently dominated by the Ducati Scrambler family. Now, another Italian brand has joined the bandwagon with two new motorcycles.
    Benelli Leoncino 800 and Trail
    The Benelli Leoncino 800 and Leoncino 800 Trail roadsters have been unveiled to take advantage of the middle-weight boom. The road-focused Leoncino 800 adopts the nameplate’s traditional styling language with an exposed trellis frame, a slender fuel tank, a simple tailpiece and spoke wheels.
    Benelli Leoncino 800
    The oval LED headlamp with horse-shoe shaped DRL and LED blinkers attempt to bring a touch of modernity to an otherwise classic package. Of course, the front fender carries the nameplate’s quintessential lion mascot.
    The Benelli Leoncino 800 Trail on the other hand has a sportier appeal with additional bodywork. The scrambler gets high-mounted twin exhaust pipes which are protected by a silver panel that extends from the tailpiece, and a compact body colored headlamp fairing. While the Leoncino 800 employs road-friendly 17-inch wheels at either end, the Trail variant adopts a larger 19-inch unit up front. Both motorcycles are shod with dual-purpose tyres.

    Specifications
    The middle-weight Benelli Leoncino twins are powered by a 754 cc parallel-twin, liquid-cooled motor which develops 76 hp and 68 Nm of torque. Transmission is a 6-speed unit which is connected to the motor by means of a slipper clutch.
    The trellis frame is equipped with Marzocchi upside down front forks with rebound, compression and preload adjustments. The monoshock rear suspension offers preload adjustment. The Trail has a longer front suspension travel of 5.5 inches compared to the regular variant’s 5.1 inches. The Trail variant also has a slightly higher saddle height.

    Braking system which comprises twin front discs and a single rear unit is from Brembo. In a nutshell, the made-in-China motorcycles which are designed in Italy, do no skimp on hardware. While detailed specifications are scarce, we expect the twins to be equipped with two-channel ABS as a standard fitment.
    Benelli is yet to reveal the prices of the Leoncino 800 family. We expect it to undercut the likes of Yamaha XSR700 by a considerable margin. Market launch is expected in the first half of 2021. There is always a sizable market for a well-priced middle weight motorcycle in India, so we expect the lions to make it to our shores soon after their international debut. More

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    2021 Ducati XDiavel Dark, Black Star, Scrambler Nightshift – Breaks Cover

    2021 Ducati XDiavel Black Star
    The 2021 Ducati XDiavel receives an 8 hp power boost in addition to becoming Euro-5 compliant

    Ducati started its five-episode world premiere video series with a bang last week by world premiering the all-new Multistrada V4 adventure tourer. In its second episode, the Borgo Panigale establishment introduced a fleet of black themed motorcycles for the 2021 model year.
    2021 Ducati XDiavel Dark
    The 2021 Ducati XDiavel is available in two editions centering around the dark theme. Conforming to ‘Reduce to the Max‘ design philosophy, the 2021 XDiavel Dark adopts matte finish for the bodywork and mechanical components, resulting in a menacing power cruiser. The highlights include black anodized
    2021 Ducati XDiavel Dark
    It is not a purely cosmetic venture though. Ducati has tweaked the engine mapping and revised the exhaust system to make the XDiavel’s Testastretta DVT 1262 liquid-cooled motor compliant with Euro-5 emission norms. While at it, the engineers have managed to squeeze 8 hp more out of the motor which now has 160 hp on tap. However, the power bump is applicable only for the markets which impose Euro 5 norms.
    Feature highlights include LED headlight, TFT instrument console, adjustable suspension system, Brembo monoblock calipers at the front, Pirelli Diablo Rosso tyres, slipper clutch and so on.

    Ducati XDiavel Black Star
    The Black Star is inspired by the world of sportscars, says Ducati. The special edition motorcycle is swathed in matte black and grey livery with a dash of contrast red accent. Positioned above the XDiavel Dark, the XDiavel Black Star boasts additional features such as the lightweight forged and machined wheels, suede leather saddle and other features that are consistent with the existing S Trim including the Ducati Multimedia System.
    2021 Ducati Scrambler Nightshift
    In addition to introducing new colour themes for the Scrambler Desert Sled and Icon, Ducati also added a new Scrambler Nightshift variant to the mix. The latest member of the 803 variant features Aviator grey paint job in matte finish and a minimal roadster styling. The frame, engine and spoke wheels (18-inch front and 17-inch rear) are all finished in black. The meaty Pirelli MT60 dual-purpose rubbers significantly add to the motorcycle’s raw character.
    2021 Ducati Scrambler Nightshift
    There isn’t any noteworthy change to the features list. The 2021 Ducati Scrambler Nightshift continues to be equipped with LED instrument dial, dual-channel cornering ABS, LED DRLs, and so on. Ducati has 3 more episodes of its world premiere series to be aired, and we think, by the end of it, the entire portfolio will stand updated for the new, and hopefully better, year.
    2021 Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled More

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    Royal Enfield Meteor 350 vs Honda CB350 – Speed Comparison Test

    Image – Abhinav Bhatt
    Is the Royal Enfield Meteor 350 faster than the Honda CB350?

    In the 350 cc segment, there are several options to choose from. Apart from the obvious Classic 350, there’s Honda H’Ness CB350 and recently launched Meteor 350. The latter two is where things may get a bit difficult to decide, since both motorcycles offer superior performance and come with a long list of features.
    To help users make informed choices, YouTuber Abhinav Bhatt has uploaded a new video that details the real world performance difference between Royal Enfield Meteor 350 and Honda CB350.
    Meteor 350 vs. Honda CB350 acceleration, speed test
    For this comparative analysis, Abhinav chose to ride the Meteor 350 and asked his colleague to ride the CB350. The primary idea was to test the performance of these motorcycles in 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th gear. The test was conducted on an open highway with limited traffic.
    In second gear, both bikers started accelerating from a speed of 20 kmph. It took Honda CB350 just a few seconds to race ahead of Meteor. The latter hit the speed limiter at 70-75 kmph, whereas CB350 achieved 80 kmph in second gear.
    [embedded content]
    In the next round, both motorcycles started at 30 kmph in third gear. For some distance, both bikes were neck and neck at a speed of around 80 kmph. CB350 eventually raced ahead of Meteor that maxed out at around 100 kmph in third gear. CB350 did 110 kmph in third gear.
    In fourth gear, both motorcycles started at 40 kmph. Now was the turn for Meteor to show its strength, as it raced ahead of CB350 almost effortlessly. However, the lead lasted for only a short distance, as CB350 eventually overtook Meteor. Apparently, CB350 has a higher top speed in 4th gear, which allowed it to overtake Meteor.
    In fifth gear, Meteor 350 emerged as a clear winner. Not only did it accelerate faster than CB350, it was also able to maintain a significant lead. After driving for quite a long distance, it was felt that CB350 couldn’t possibly catch up with Meteor in 5th gear.
    Ride experience summary
    According to Abhinav, he liked Meteor’s performance, especially in 4th and 5th gear. The level of acceleration and top speed would be very useful during long distance journeys. Honda CB350 trailed behind Meteor in 5th gear, which is probably due to its tall gear setup.
    As is evident from this video, specs may only be able to provide a basic idea about a motorcycle’s capabilities. Numbers do not necessarily determine how well a motorcycle will perform in the real world. This is especially true when we are comparing two products. When unsure, the best way to find out the better one that suits your needs is to take them out for a test ride. More

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    Honda CB350 Deliveries Cross 1k Units – Sets New Standards In Segment

    From Sales Experience to Service, CB350 is setting new standards
    Honda H’Ness CB350 rivals the likes of Royal Enfield Classic, Meteor 350 and Benelli Imperiale 400

    Honda H’Ness CB350 has managed to woo a considerable size of audience and this can be established by its sales volume. Within its first twenty days of commencement of deliveries, Honda has retailed 1,000 units of the mid-segment retro motorcycle.
    Given its limited availability across the country, this is fairly a large number. As we all know, H’Ness CB350 is retailed only through Honda’s premium dealership chain BigWing. Also considering it is a brand new product in a segment clearly dominated by Royal Enfield, the CB350 seems to have pulled the trick.
    The Japanese brand has also revealed that demand for this bike has also spread to Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities as well. Making its global debut in late September this year, this modern classic motorcycle has its genes from the brand’s legendary CB series of the 1970s. The CB350 has been developed with nine patent applications and five first-in-segment features.
    Features on offer
    Speaking of its features, it boasts of a long equipment list which includes full-LED lighting, a digital-analogue instrument cluster, contemporary and easy to use switchgear, engine start/stop switch, hazard switch, Honda traction control, Honda Smartphone Voice Control System and more.
    Honda CB350 First Service. Image – Abhinav Bhatt
    Coming to its dynamics, the CB350 is based on a half-duplex cradle chassis that rides on conventional telescopic forks at front and twin hydraulic shock absorbers at rear. Anchoring duties are handled by a 310 mm single hydraulic disc on the front and a single 240 mm disc at the rear. This is assisted by dual-channel ABS as standard. The bike rolls on 19-inch alloy wheels at front and 18-inch wheels at rear.
    In terms of powertrain, it draws its power from a 348.36cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled long-stroke engine which delivers an output of 20.8 bhp and 30 Nm of torque. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox which comes with a slipper clutch and assist. Honda has emphasized on low-end torque in this engine which makes this motorcycle easy to ride in city commutes.
    Best in Class Experience
    Be it visiting their showroom, or the buying experience – Honda has managed to deliver best in class experience in the segment. No other OEM offers a 350cc segment machine in such an extravagant manner. From its large showrooms to well trained staff; even the after sales and service experience is much better than rivals.
    Reacting on this development, Yadvinder Singh Guleria, Director – Sales & Marketing said, “Customers belonging to a wide spectrum of age group starting from 18 years to 70 years have made H’Ness CB350 as their first choice. We are proud that even with our limited BigWing network, we have been able to achieve this milestone of 1000 customer deliveries in such a short period of time.”
    Honda H’Ness CB350 is offered in two variants- DLX and DLX Pro which come in three mono-tone colour options on the former and three dual-tone paint options on the latter. The base trim has been priced at Rs 1.85 lakh and the top-end trim is offered at Rs 1.90 lakh (ex-showroom). More

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    Triumph Used Motorcycles With Warranty – Now Available In India

    Triumph Tiger
    Triumph will cover the motorcycles with unlimited kms warranty for one year from date of purchase

    Triumph Motorcycles has introduced a new premium pre-owned motorcycle program called ‘Triumph Approved’. This program is being presented via all the company dealerships in India while a dedicated website – https://www.triumphapproved.in/ is also set apart for this purpose.
    You can avail the entire range of Triumph motorcycles under this new venture. These includes the Street Twin, Bonneville, Tiger, Street Triple, etc. Every approved Triumph pre-owned bike will come in with 1 year unlimited mileage warranty, 1 year road side assistance, certified vehicle quality check, full service history and vehicle history.
    The company will also offer valid PUC along with finance options to buyers and will even facilitate transfer of ownership. Each pre-owned Triumph motorcycle will be put through a series of check lists so as to ensure that the new customer receives a genuine Triumph experience.
    Mr. Shoeb Farooq, Business Head, Triumph Motorcycles India has detailed the ‘Triumph Approved’ program and feels that this will attract new buyers into the Triumph fold, allowing them to realize their dream of owning a Triumph bike at more affordable prices. The Triumph range in India currently includes BS6 compliant bikes in the Modern Classic, Adventure and Roadster categories and comprises the iconic Rocket 3R and Rocket 3GT.
    Triumph Approved
    Upcoming Launches
    Triumph Motorcycles is also set to launch new products in India. The Trident was introduced last month and bookings have opened at a token amount of Rs.50,000. The Trident will officially launch sometime in March 2021 and will come in as a CKD unit with price expected at around Rs.7 lakhs.
    The Triumph Trident will be powered by a 660cc unit offering 81 hp power and 64 Nm torque mated to a 6 speed gearbox. The Triumph Trident will rival the Kawasaki Z650 and Honda CB650 in India.
    Globally, the company is also set to introduce a new Tiger variant. Triumph Tiger 850 Sport will be unveiled on November 17, 2020, is expected to go on sale early 2021 and has already been teased on the company website. It will be an all-new adventure-touring motorcycle and will be seen with twin LED headlamps with LED DRLs, adjustable windscreen, tall fuel tank, step up seats and wire spoke rims.
    The new Tiger 850 will draw a strong resemblance to the Tiger 900 which is currently offered in four variants. Tiger 850 will be an entry level model and will take on the likes of BMW F900XR and Yamaha Tracer 900. Triumph Tiger 850 Sport will also compete with the recently launched Ducati Multistrada 950 S priced at Rs.15.49 lakhs here. More

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    2021 Indian Motorcycle Range Launch Price Rs 15 L To Rs 44 L – Bookings Open

    2021 Indian Scout Bobber Twenty
    Indian Motorcycle is known for heavily built bobbers popularly referred to as ‘choppers’ in the USA

    Indian Motorcycle has finally introduced its updated 2021 lineup in India along with each model’s price. A few weeks ago the American bikemaker revealed its updated lineup for 2021, however, the company has revealed the prices now. Along with this, bookings of the new bikes have also commenced.
    All bikes now comply with the latest BS6 emission norms. Interested customers can book their favourite Indian motorcycle through their nearby dealerships at a token amount Rs 2,00,000. Currently, the American brand has its dealerships in New Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Chandigarh and Kochi.
    2021 Indian Motorcycle Range, Prices, Colours
    Polaris-owned Indian Motorcycle set foot in India in 2014 and since then has been offering its products as direct imports via the CBU route. In its updated range, the company will be offering all motorcycles under its wing which includes the likes of Chief, Scout, Chieftain, Roadmaster, FTR 1200 and Vintage range of bikes. In addition to these, the manufacturer has also added Roadmaster Limited, Chief Vintage Dark Horse and Scout Bobber Twenty to its latest product range.
    Scout Range
    The range starting Scout Bobber is priced at INR 15,67,367 and is available in as many as eight colours namely Thunder Black, Thunder Black Smoke, Burnt Orange Metallic, Thunder Black Azure Crystal, White Smoke, Alumina Jade Smoke, Maroon Metallic Smoke and Indy Red. Scout is offered at a price of INR 16,04,664 and is available in three single-tone colour options and four dual-tone colour options. These include Thunder Black, Deepwater Metallic and White Smoke in single-tone options.
    2021 Indian Roadmaster
    While for dual-tone options one gets to choose from Maroon Metallic over Crimson Metallic, Arizona Turquoise/Pearl White, Blue Slate Metallic/Cobra Silver, & Stealth Gray/Thunder Black. The top-end Scout Bobber Twenty has been pegged at INR 16,20,702 and is available in Sagebrush Smoke, Stealth Gray, Thunder Black Smoke and Thunder Black, colour options.
    Cruiser & Bagger Range
    The Cruiser range of bikes includes Indian Vintage and Indian Vintage Dark Horse which have been priced at INR 25,81,832 and INR 26,63,105. The former is offered in Crimson Metallic and Deep Water/Dirt Track Tan paint schemes whereas the latter comes in Thunder Black Smoke colour scheme.
    Indian Motorcycles
    Price Rs, Ex-sh
    Scout
    16,04,664
    Scout Bobber
    15,67,367
    Scout Bobber Twenty
    16,20,702
    Vintage
    25,81,832
    Vintage Dark Horse
    26,63,105
    Springfield
    33,06,094
    Springfield Dark Horse
    29,23,352
    Chieftain
    31,67,937
    Chieftain Dark Horse
    33,29,286
    Chieftain Limited
    33,54,126
    Roadmaster
    43,21,031
    Roadmaster Dark Horse
    43,14,840
    Roadmaster Limited
    43,96,093
    Going further upwards comes the Bagger range of bikes which includes Springfield, Springfield Dark Horse, Chieftain, Chieftain Dark Horse and Chieftain Limited. The Springfield and Springfield Dark Horse come at a price of INR 33,06,094 and INR 29,23,352 respectively. Whereas Chieftain, Chieftain Dark Horse and Chieftain Limited are offered at a price tag of INR 31,67,937; INR 33,29,286 and INR 33,54,126.
    Touring Range
    The Touring Range is the most premium range of Indian Motorcycle introduced till now. It consists of Roadmaster, Roadmaster Dark Horse and Roadmaster Limited and has been priced at INR 43,21,031; INR 43,14,840 and INR 43,96,093 respectively. Prices of FTR 1200 series and Challenger range of bikes are yet to be announced formally and are expected to be revealed in the coming months.
    2021 Indian Chieftain Springfield Scout More